Ball State University Celebrates 10 Years of the Charles W. Brown Planetarium

Topics: Arts and Culture, College of Sciences and Humanities, Community Engagement, Faculty, Muncie, President

November 26, 2024

Ball State University this month is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Charles W. Brown Planetarium, the largest and most technologically advanced planetarium in Indiana.

Since its opening in November 2014, the planetarium has inspired more than 180,000 visitors of all ages, offering a gateway to the wonders of space through innovative and educational programming.

The planetarium, named for Ball State alumnus and benefactor Charles W. Brown, boasts a 16-meter dome equipped with cutting-edge HYBRID technology. Its features include fulldome digital projectors and an opto-mechanical star projector capable of recreating the night sky at a resolution equivalent to 70K. All public shows and school visits are free of charge, ensuring accessibility for all.

"The Charles W. Brown Planetarium is one of the crown jewels of our beautiful campus," said Ball State President Geoffrey S. Mearns. "I am grateful for his transformational support, and for the vision of our planetarium, which bring the wonders of the universe to life every day."

Mr. Brown, a 1971 Ball State graduate and longtime University donor, said it is "incredibly rewarding" to see the joy and wonder the planetarium brings to students and the community. He credits Dr. Ronald Kaitchuck, former executive planetarium director and professor emeritus of physics and astronomy at Ball State, for his tireless efforts to establish a new planetarium on campus 10 years ago.

"Without the vision and perseverance of Ron Kaitchuck, the planetarium would not be the incredible resource it has become," Mr. Brown said. "The planetarium is now a beacon of learning and imagination, making science and space exploration accessible to everyone."

More recently, under the leadership of Director Dayna Thompson, the planetarium has expanded its reach, hosting more than 3,500 events, including field trips for local schoolchildren, public programs, and interdisciplinary collaborations.

The facility continues to serve as a hub for community engagement, educational exploration, and cross-disciplinary innovation. From astronomy-themed poetry workshops to live music events under the stars, the planetarium exemplifies Ball State's commitment to creativity and inclusiveness.

"Our mission is to inspire," Ms. Thompson said. "We aim to ignite curiosity, provide transformative experiences, and make the universe feel just a little closer for everyone who visits."

Looking ahead to the next decade, the planetarium staff remains focused on expanding the facility's educational offerings and reaching even more visitors. The 10th anniversary celebration marks a milestone for the facility, and a reaffirmation of Ball State's enduring commitment to excellence and inspiration.

"This planetarium is more than just a building-it's a place where imagination soars, and lifelong learning begins," Ms. Thompson said. "We look forward to continuing to inspire future generations, foster curiosity, and create unforgettable experiences for all who walk through our doors."

For more about the Charles W. Brown Planetarium, including a schedule of events, visit the planetarium's website, call 765-285-8963, or email [email protected].